Lake and McHenry Counties
Announcements & Highlights
Read more about building a culture of composting in greater Chicagoland
What's so important about compost? Food waste is a pressing environmental concern in Illinois. In Cook County — and in many counties around the state — it accounts for up to 37% of landfill material.
Resources Available
Farm Record Books, Pesticide Applicator Training Manuals, and Workbooks are available for purchase through your local Extension Office. There is a wide variety of study materials available to help you prepare for the Illinois Pesticide Applicator/Operator Licensure Exams.
Winter Bird Feeding with Suet
Winter bird food supplies critical calories to assist birds in regulating their body temperature. Moreover, activity at the bird feeder declines once spring arrives as natural food sources become abundant once again. Learn how to make your own suet to feed your backyard friends.
Exciting Events and Series
The Great Seed Event 2026
Saturday, February 7th 10-2 pm McHenry County's third annual all-things-seeds event: vegetables, natives, flowers and herbs. Vendors, demos and a seed swap! By Center for Agrarian Learning at McHenry County College
Save the Date for Lake County Seed Expo
Mark your calendars for March 7, 2026! The Lake County Master Gardeners' Seed Expo will be held at the College of Lake County. More info to come.
Join us for the 2026 University of Illinois Extension Garden Learning Series!!
This year we have a fantastic variety of topics being presented by the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners and Educators, along with Educators and Ecologists from the Lake County Forest Preserve District and the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO).
Connect. Learn. Grow
Plant Problems? Insects Invading? What's that Weed?
Call our Master Gardener Helpline and a U of I Extension Master Gardener will answer your questions at NO COST! From insects to pollinator gardens, crabgrass to milkweed, if you have a question, they can help!
Become a Master Naturalist
Volunteer as a Master Naturalist to facilitate conservation and restoration in your community and educate others about natural resources.
Eat well, stay active, and save money
Find tasty recipes, shopping tips, and activities to keep you and your family healthy.
Sea Grant Illinois-Indiana
Sea Grant uses research, outreach, and education to bring the latest science to Great Lakes communities. Sea Grant helps strengthen and preserve ecosystems and communities in southern Lake Michigan and beyond.
Commercial Agriculture
Family Life
Illinois Nutrition Education Programs
Local Foods & Small Farms